As a result of the dangerously high level of the Edward River and flood warnings remaining for the many tributaries that drain into the Edward River, the NSW State Emergency Service advises that the following areas of the Edward River are an emergency area under the State Emergency Services Act 1989 (NSW) (SES Act):
- downstream of Picnic Point to Wakool Junction.
Under section 22 of the SES Act people are directed as follows:
- Leave the emergency area
- Do not enter the emergency area
This applies to all commercial and recreational users of the rivers. No boats can enter the emergency area and people cannot enter the area for recreational purposes such as fishing or swimming.
"As part of the declaration no boats can enter the emergency area and people cannot enter the area for any recreational purpose such as fishing or swimming," NSW SES Incident Controller Benjamin Pickup said.
"NSW SES is urging people in the community to reconsider any plans involving the waterways and do not enter the river system. This will place you in danger and can endanger our emergency responders when you need help.
"The declaration of the emergency area applies to all residents and users are not permitted on the river at this time.
"Wash from boating activities can impact Levee systems while our river is at high flood levels," he added.
Emergency Services, Roads and Maritime Services, State and Local Government personnel are permitted to access the emergency area for emergency operations and enforcement.
